The annual International Bazaar returns with proceeds benefiting underserved communities

On a daily basis, marginalized groups across the country face various issues that constantly affect their quality of life. Recognizing this social problem, many organizations and individuals try to support these sectors through programs and projects aimed at improving their lives.

One of the programs dedicated to this noble cause is the annual International Bazaar.

The International Bazaar, an annual charity event organized by the International Bazaar Foundation, Inc. (IBF) in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Diplomatic and Consular Corps, and the Spouses of Heads of Mission (SHOM), is a one-day charity event.

Local and international goods, along with goods from participating countries, are displayed and sold. Diplomatic missions also have the opportunity to showcase products from their countries and establish contacts with local importers in the Philippines.

During a press conference held on September 12 at the World Trade Center to mark the bazaar’s 58th anniversary, representatives of numerous diplomatic missions, including those from Argentina, Australia, Ghana, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, Syria, Turkey, the United States and Vietnam, presented products that will be showcased at the event.

These products include famous delicacies such as Hungarian spicy sausages, Indian sweet gulab jamun and Argentine high-quality wine, as well as handmade goods such as Ghanaian dashikis and kente cloths, and hand-woven bags from Japan. The bazaar will also showcase local Filipino artisans, including food items, handicrafts and souvenirs.

Although the IBF was still accepting applications, the bazaar confirmed 172 stalls, and 39 embassies and consulates participated. In an interview with Manila Standard Life, IBF Executive Director Nora C. Salazar mentioned that they expect more embassies and consulates to join, with Thailand and Israel among those they are waiting to hear from.

Since its inception in 1966, all proceeds from International Bazaar have gone towards programs and projects that support marginalized sectors in areas such as education, livelihoods, and more. This year, the proceeds will go towards charitable projects and programs run by IBF and SHOM.

Currently, IBF supports 52 active researchers and various livelihood projects for disadvantaged communities and disaster victims. It also provides financial and material support to civil society organizations, medical institutions and NGOs that help disabled people, the elderly, the homeless, women victims of violence, abandoned children and others in need.

“When we raise funds, the board usually meets and decides how much of the funds will go toward education, such as college scholarships, support for institutions that care for the elderly and children who are victims of violence, and funds for projects that aim to provide livelihoods in communities that are in crisis and after disasters, which unfortunately happens a lot,” Salazar said.

She also explained that the IBF selects institutions and beneficiaries based on specific criteria.

“First, the applicant institution must be registered with the SEC. It must have a history and be accredited by the DSWD, which means it must be legal. We also monitor its activities before making a decision,” Salazar said.

Salazar also mentioned that around 6,000 people will be in attendance at the event and that donor cards will be available, which will also be raffle tickets for a chance to win special cash prizes.

The 58th International Bazaar will be held on November 3 at the World Trade Center, Halls B and C, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tickets cost PHP 150 and can be purchased at the Tesoros Store, 1016 A. Arnaiz Ave., Makati, during store hours Monday through Sunday.